Sabalenka Survives Nosková in Four-Set U.S. Open Quarterfinal
Aryna Sabalenka overcame a strong challenge from Linda Nosková to advance to the U.S. Open semifinals. Nosková became the first player to take a set off Sabalenka in the tournament. The match was a grueling three-set battle, with Sabalenka ultimately prevailing.
The quarterfinal took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens on September 8, 2026. Sabalenka, a top seed, had not dropped a set in the tournament prior to this match. Nosková's set win marked the first time any opponent had taken a set from Sabalenka this year.
The match extended deep into the evening, with Sabalenka forced to recover after falling behind. Nosková, a young Czech player, pushed the favorite to her physical limits before Sabalenka's power game ultimately proved decisive. The victory keeps Sabalenka on course for her first U.S. Open title.
This result could shape the tournament's narrative, as Sabalenka's ability to survive a stern test may strengthen her confidence heading into the semifinals. For Nosková, the performance could elevate her profile among emerging players and signal her arrival on the sport's biggest stage. Fans may view this as evidence of growing depth in women's tennis, where established champions face increasingly stiff challenges from younger talent. The match's grueling nature could also prompt discussion about player recovery schedules during major events.